Toxic Leaves: The leaves of rhubarb are highly toxic so you rarely see them attached. If you grow rhubarb, be mindful of this fact as pets or other animals might want to nibble on the leaves. Be sure to barricade rhubarb from dogs, cats, rabbits, and chickens.

Organic or Not? Since rhubarb is pretty bland, choosing organic rhubarb doesn't seem to impact flavor too much. Most of the rhubarb at farmer's markets will be grown without pesticides or herbicides, but ask the vendor if you're unsure.

Does Color Matter? The red-ness or green-ness of rhubarb doesn't seem to indicate how sweet it is. Rhubarb is already a pretty tart vegetable, so you're best pairing it with sweet fruits to balance the flavors.

Storing:

Dry and Cold: Store rhubarb unwashed, in your refrigerator for up to 10 days. Slice and freeze for longer storage.

How to Clean and Cook:

How to Clean: Rinse rhubarb under running water to remove any dirt or grit. Trim off the ends and any bits of leaves. Dice or slice into bite-sized pieces, according to your recipe.

How to Cook: Raw rhubarb is incredibly tart, so it usually does best simmered or baked. Pair it with sweet strawberries, mango, pineapple, or dried fruits to balance the tart flavor. To retain the crunchy texture, only simmer rhubarb for 10-15 minutes, or bake in a Crisp for 25-30 minutes.

Rhubarb Recipes

Healthy, Oil-Free Plant-Based Vegetarian Dishes

Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

Strawberries and Rhubarb pair with chia seeds and lemon for this healthy, plant-based, oil-free, no sugar added vegan recipe

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Use the Oat Crisp Topping of this Blueberry Recipe. Swap out the Filling for 4 stalks of Rhubarb + 1 pound of strawberries for a Healthy, Gluten-Free, Whole Grain, Oil-Free, No Refined Sugar, Plant-Based, Vegan

Subscribe

Join the Plants-Rule Community

Email Address

Get Recipes, Videos, and Chef's Tips sent straight to your inbox.

Thank you!

Please check your Inbox to Confirm your Subscription!

Plants-Rule (TM), Copyright 2014 by Katie Simmons. All photos, recipes, videos, and articles are property of Chef Katie Simmons unless otherwise cited. All rights reserved. Please seek the advice of a medical professional before making dietary changes.